Swiss Craftsmanship Meets Dive Science in the Bühlmann Decompression 02

Bühlmann Dive Watches announces the launch of the Bühlmann Decompression 02, a mechanical watch born from Swiss craftsmanship and designed as the ultimate backup companion to modern dive computers. Built on the scientific legacy of Dr. Albert A. Bühlmann and validated by leading decompression specialists — including former members of the original Bühlmann research team, experts from the Divers Alert Network (DAN) Europe, and the World Underwater Federation (CMAS) — it represents a rare alliance of horology and decompression science. This is more than a dive watch – it’s a precision instrument for divers who demand redundancy, awareness and uncompromising safety.

Honoring a Legacy: Bühlmann and the Continuing Mission of DAN Europe

The foundations of modern dive safety were laid by Prof. Albert A. Bühlmann, whose pioneering research from the late 1950s to the 1980s resulted in the ZH-L16 decompression algorithm, a model still employed by most dive computers and tables today. Bühlmann’s work was revolutionary for its completeness, as it addressed decompression at sea level, depth and altitude, thereby creating a model applicable to the full range of diving environments. 

During the 1980s and 1990s, Bühlmann worked closely with Prof. Alessandro Marroni, the founder and president of DAN Europe. Together, they combined hyperbaric physiology with real-world diver medical support. Their partnership and friendship established modern principles of decompression safety, prevention, and exposure control. Today, DAN Europe continues that mission through the Quest for the Perfect Algorithm, a next-generation research programme advancing towards personalised decompression models that incorporate individual physiology, environmental conditions and real dive behaviour. The Bühlmann Decompression 02 represents this shared scientific journey.

”Working with Prof. Bühlmann was instrumental in shaping the early stages of my career. At DAN Europe, I am pursuing that mission alongside our research and medical team, evolving universal algorithms into personalised decompression strategies. This watch honours that legacy while supporting vital research that is shaping the future of dive safety”. — Prof. Alessandro Marroni, Founder & President, DAN Europe

A portion of every watch sold supports the DAN Europe Medical Research Fund and its ongoing safety initiatives. 

Swiss-Made Precision Designed for Real Diving

Every component — even those unseen — is manufactured in Switzerland according to established standards of mechanical watchmaking. The Bühlmann Decompression 02 features a 48 mm stainless steel case set at a 5° inclination to enhance underwater legibility. With a multi-layer pressure-resistant architecture and reinforced seals, the watch’s case construction allows it to operate at depths of up to 575 m / 57.5 atm, a depth that matches Bühlmann’s own hyperbaric record.

The movement is a Swiss Sellita SW300 automatic calibre, chosen for its slim design and compatibility with a central seconds configuration. The watch features a double-dial module, developed for Bühlmann Watches, that can be viewed through a sapphire crystal, as well as a sapphire aperture that is aligned with the decompression display.

External functional elements include the patented Twin Safety Bezel®, engineered with counter-rotating, direction-restricted mechanisms; a flexible strap joint integrated directly into the case to accommodate wrist movement; and a detachable wetsuit extension intended for use over exposure suits.

“The Decompression 02 was designed to complement dive computers, not compete with them. It is the mechanical expression of scientific rigour and a limited edition collectible that embodies true Swiss craftsmanship. We built it the way it had to be built, with no concessions to established dive watch design conventions. ”— Guido Benedini, CEO, Bühlmann Watches

A Mechanical Backup Backed by Science

The Decompression 02 is a professional-grade mechanical backup system designed to remain fully operational even if digital systems fail. Inspired by Bühlmann’s original circular decompression calculator, it incorporates two signature systems. The Twin Safety Bezel® is equipped with two independent bezels that rotate in opposite directions: one indicates Total Dive Time (rotating counter-clockwise to ensure fail-safe blocking) and the other shows Decompression Stops (rotating clockwise), thus reducing the risk of accidental mis-timing. The lower Twin Decompression Dial® then displays decompression stop times for 17 Golden Zone dive profiles (18–39 m), as well as the Fly/No-Fly segment. The decompression data is derived from the ZH-L16B algorithm, a global standard widely adopted by the most recent dive computers.

“My father always believed that science should serve safety. I am proud to witness his groundbreaking work embodied in this mechanical instrument — and supporting DAN Europe’s research — a true continuation of his life’s mission.” — Thomas Bühlmann, board member Bühlmann Dive Watches

A Partnership Rooted in Shared Values

The Bühlmann Decompression 02 combines a century of decompression science and Swiss mechanical expertise with DAN Europe’s pioneering research. It stands at the intersection of craftsmanship, scientific legacy and mission-driven dive safety. It is a tool for divers who recognise that true safety begins with awareness, is strengthened by mastery and is maximised through personalisation.

Limited edition: 575 numbered pieces
Retail price: CHF 3,990  [Reservation price: CHF 3,590]
Reservation window: 4 December 2025 – 31 March 2026
Available exclusively at: https://www.watchangels.ch

DAN Europe members will have exclusive access to a special edition featuring the DAN logo on the dial, priority reservation privileges, and special pricing.